David Rakoff: 1964-2012

David Rakoff, a Canadian writer best known for his contributions to This American Life, has died from cancer. He was 47.

Rakoff published three books during his lifetime: Fraud, Don’t Get Too Comfortable, and Half Empty. Last year, he won the James Thurber Prize for American Humor.

Rakoff identified himself as a New Yorker, where he lived for most of his adult life. He was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the age of 22 and made a recovery before being diagnosed with a malignant tumor again in 2010. His two-year battle with cancer lost mobility in his left arm. Edward Champion, a friend of Rakoff, has published an obituary:

Last night, David lost his battle with cancer. But we still have the three books, the many This American Life appearances, and David’s quiet suggestion that a comic yet realistic dignity is an extraordinary defense against life’s cruel setbacks.

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